5 Essential Steps an Administrator, Executor, or Trustee Should Take Before Listing a Home for Sale

Serving as the administrator/executor/trustee of an estate is an important responsibility, especially when it involves selling a loved one’s home. The process can feel complex and overwhelming, but with the right steps in place, you can ensure a smooth and successful sale. At Legacy Trusts and Probate, we specialize in probate and trust sales, guiding executors through each stage with professionalism, efficiency, and care.

If you’re preparing to sell an estate property, here are five critical steps to take before listing the home:

1. Obtain Legal Authority to Sell

Before you can move forward with the sale, it’s important to confirm that you have the legal authority to do so. This typically involves:

• Obtaining Letters of Testamentary from the probate court, granting you the power to manage and sell estate assets.

• Confirming ownership and ensuring there are no title issues.

• Reviewing the will or trust to verify any specific instructions regarding the property.
  

If the home is part of a trust, the trustee may have immediate authority to sell without court involvement. Consulting with a probate attorney can help clarify any legal requirements.

2. Have the Property Appraised

Determining the home’s fair market value is a crucial step in maximizing the estate’s return and ensuring transparency with heirs and beneficiaries. An experienced real estate professional or licensed appraiser can provide a detailed valuation, considering the home’s condition, location, and market trends. If the property is sold in probate, the court will appoint a probate referee to provide an accurate and independent appraisal of the trust assets. 

3. Secure and Maintain the Property

A vacant home requires proper care to maintain its value and prevent issues. As the executor, take steps to:

• Change the locks and limit access to authorized individuals.

• Continue insurance coverage to protect against potential damages.

• Keep up with maintenance such as landscaping, cleaning, and necessary repairs.

A well-maintained property not only protects the estate’s assets but also makes a better impression when it’s time to sell.

4. Handle Debts, Taxes, and Liens

Before listing the property, it’s essential to address any outstanding debts tied to the home, such as:

• Mortgage balances or home equity loans.

• Unpaid property taxes or HOA fees.

• Utility bills and maintenance costs.

Checking for any liens or title issues early on can prevent delays once a buyer is interested. A real estate professional with probate experience can help ensure the sale proceeds smoothly.

5. Sort and Remove Personal Belongings

One of the most emotional and time-consuming steps is clearing out the home. As the executor, you may need to:

• Allow family members time to retrieve sentimental items.

• Coordinate an estate sale or donation of remaining belongings.

• Arrange for junk removal or professional cleaning to prepare the home for listing.

At Legacy Trusts and Probate, we work with trusted service providers to handle estate sales, clean-outs, and property preparation, making this process as efficient and stress-free as possible.

Compassionate Expertise When You Need It Most.  Let Us Guide You.

Managing an estate comes with many responsibilities, but you don’t have to do it alone. Legacy Trusts and Probate, specializes in probate and trust sales, offering the expertise, resources, and compassion you need to navigate this transition with confidence.

Contact us today for a confidential consultation, and let’s discuss how we can help you through the next steps.